camping at twin lakes, mammoth: nature, deer + watercolor journaling to reset my soul

We just got back from camping in Mammoth with our homeschool crew. Pine trees, lakes, deer (and even bear encounters), and a little art journaling by the water. My brain cells and lungs are finally recovering from the altitude, but unplugging was the reset I needed.

Being offline for a few days reminded me how easy it is to get caught up in the whirlwind of controversy that is seemingly causing division amongst strangers and even people we love. What if social media (or mainstream media for that matter) was never a thing and we never paid attention to the chaos that is currently wearing away at our souls?

At the end of the day, what really matters is love, kindness, and the things we all share as humans. We all want to feel safe, connected, and cared for.

Before the trip, I was feeling ungrounded and overwhelmed. Out in the fresh (thin) air, I kept asking myself: How do I honor the people I love and respect, and where do I choose to come from, regardless of different view points?

The answer: from love and compassion and a DEEP understanding that each individual has a different worldview. That’s what I choose, and that’s what I hope for you too.

I genuinely hope you’re finding ways to take care of yourself, too, whether that’s unplugging, grounding with Mother Nature, or just pausing to check in with your own heart and highest wisdom. Last night I went out to hear some live music and dance, and it reminded me how art (whether it’s music, painting, or movement) has this way of reconnecting us. Sometimes we don’t need words at all, just the chance to feel and express.

Sending so much love and peace to your hearts ✨xo-dez